Illustrative Massage

This is an original self-created practice that combines my training in performance/somatic movement techniques with visual art to create maps connecting the visual body with the subconscious so as to reimagine the body.

I work one-on-one, firstly massage and relaxation technique, and then with guided-visualisation to let participants into a space of connecting with the lived body - the soma - navigated through my touch.

This inspires the drawing of an image map that combines the anatomy and plays with subconscious association to the sensation of another - a story, which I hope can begin a conversation about how can and how do we relate to the ‘other’s’ truth.

This practice was invented through Practice as Research project during an MA program with Rose Bruford College in Ensemble Theatre. After completing the MA in 2018 I continued to research and develop the practice over the years till I till I started to take on clients in 2021.

I have taught this practice at ‘Recrear International’ Magnify retreat in Stromboli 2022, and continue to share this practice.

Illustrative masage sessions can be booked over email.

Client Testimonials;

“Victoria gifted me with a new perspective on my inner life and with the validation of form for feeling. We started with a deep body scan, a guided mediation with touch and massage, and when my inner dance broke free, Victoria stepped back to begin her drawings of my somatic journey. “I see my heart!” and it’s a fish, a swirling energy, a beautiful mess of life and mystery. Victoria’s work is out-of-this-world, gorgeous and unique, refreshingly playful and spirited— a true gift!” Matthew

“Working with Victoria was one of the most transformative and inspiring experiences of my life. I am still in awe of her wisdom and insights she had after simply coming into contact with my body. My heart burst when I saw the artwork she made- not only was it divinely beautiful, she was able to tap into ancestral memories that I couldn’t even consciously remember. I still cherish our session and her renderings to this day.” Hayley

Why do I do it?

A merging of image and touch can be subversive in creating meetings of true intimacy with the self-the poetic body bringing with it a different honest attention that could be truly anarchic.

We are struggling to cope with a divided perspective on the meaning of the body from the subjective vs. objective experience. This divided perspective, when left un-re-cognised, leads to a profound misunderstanding of the body-consciousness that precipitates both interpersonal and ecological abuse. I fiercely seek to create a moment that evokes freedom and responsibility. I facilitate space through this investigation for people to leave having felt themselves intimately with another.

Client Testimonials;

“Victoria Watson so graciously gave me an incredible massage that liberated so much tension in my body and in my mind. She knew exactly where my tension needed to be released while she massaged so naturally and smoothly. She took me on a journey of release. It was incredible.

The illustrated massage definitely seems like a soul map to me. She took me once again on another journey, as we talked about them, where I could see the inner-emotional paths I am taking in my life. This time, she helped me on my journey of acceptance, of acceptance through love.” Natalie

Client Testimonial;

“The session with Victoria was a grounding fantastical journey, her intuitive skills coupled with her paintings create a wonderful collaboration that is manifested in (literally) a surrealist painting of your insides. Who wouldn’t want that hanging on their wall?” Virginia Vigliar

Documentation and early Illustrated Massages for Rose Bruford Practice as Research project. Previously named ‘ Somaps’

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Illustrative Massage Practice